Pre-TT competitor cleared of rape

Northern Irishman was on the Isle of Man for the Pre-TT Classic Road Races

A motorcycle racer from Northern Ireland has been cleared of raping a Manx resident.

Robert John Woolsey was charged with rape and two offences of indecent assault relating to events in Douglas on or about 26 May 2023.

The 46-year-old, who had been on the Island for the Pre-TT Classic Road Races, denied those allegations.

Mr Woolsey was found not guilty by a jury on Tuesday (13 May) after a two-week trial at the Court of General Gaol Delivery.

New legislation which offers anonymity to people accused of some sexual offences came into effect on the Isle of Man in March 2024.

However, the allegations against Mr Woolsey were made before that date.